In This Issue...

Abortion=Preterm Birth Increase...... 3 Legislative Agenda...... 3 Life Matters Across the Mighty State...... 10-11 March for Life Bus ...... 2 Ad for Life Coupon...... 9 President’s Letter...... 2 Annual Rose Dinner Photos...... 5-7 Pro-Life Profile: Felicia Stevenson... 8 Calendar of Upcoming Events...... 9 Rally in Charleston (March 18)...... 9 State Affiliate to the National Right to Life Committee Forty Years of Roe...... Back Cover State Convention Photos...... 4

Volume 34, Number 4 A publication of West Virginians for Life, Inc. December 2012 Elections of 2012 by Wanda Franz, Ph.D., For the pro-life movement, every West Virginians for Life PAC President election presents opportunities. This election is no exception. We look forward to the new The elections are (finally) over. challenges that are presented to us. Our Unfortunately, we had reason to be biggest challenge is the re-election of Barack disappointed because, although West Obama. Virginia defeated Barack Obama by 35% to Obama is the most extreme pro-abortion 62%, he carried the national vote and won and anti-life president in the history of our the election. Fortunately, we also had reason country. It is sad that a majority of voters to be very pleased by some of the votes in our have returned him to office in spite of his own state. West Virginians for Life Political anti-life record. Americans are truly at risk. Action Committee (WVL PAC) worked very We in the pro-life movement must re-double hard to support good pro-life candidates here our efforts to protect the victims of abortion, WVL PAC endorsed in , and there were a few bright to stop tax-payer funding of abortion, and to the winning candidate, spots. protect our sick and elderly from the dangers Shelley , PAC President Dr. Wanda Franz with 1st District Congressman David In the statewide races, WVL PAC of ObamaCare. In West Virginia, we intend representing the 2nd McKinley and wife, Mary. Congressman McKinley, who has a 100% had a 71% success rate. We congratulate to work with our pro-life supporters to limit Congressional District. pro-life voting record from his first term, has won re-election. for his defeat of long-time the damage of ObamaCare, as we work for its repeal. West Virginia Pro-Life Kelli Sobonya (H18), We thank all our supporters and State Senate Wins: (H20), /Josh Stowers (H22), volunteers for the hard work that helped to Rupert Phillips/Teddy Tomblin (H24), make the elections in the state such a success. Jack Yost (S1), Jeff Kessler (S2), Donna / (H27), John In the , we had a 92% Boley (S3), Mitch Carmichael (S4), Robert O’Neal/Roy Cooper (H28), Ricky Moye success rate. WVL PAC endorsed in 14 of Plymale (S5), Bill Cole in a head-to-head (H29), (H30), Karen “Lynn” the 17 Senate Districts with only one loss. with pro-abortion incumbent Mark Wills Arvon (H31), Dave Perry/ (H32), In the House of Delegates, WVL PAC had a (S6), (S8), Daniel Hall (S9), David Walker (H33), (H34), 74% winning percentage. The PAC endorsed William Laird (S10), Clark Barnes (S11), /Eric Nelson/John McCuskey in 63 of the 67 House Districts, and losses Roman Prezioso (S13), Bob Williams (S14) (H35), Patrick Lane (H38), occurred in only 11 of those Districts, but and (S15). (H39), (H40), three of those winners are pro-life. In both (H41), George “Boogie” Ambler/Ray the West Virginia Senate and the House, there West Virginia Pro-Life Canterbury (H42), Denise Campbell (H43), was a net gain of three pro-life winners. House of Delegates Wins: Bill Hamilton (H45), Peggy Donaldson WVFL President Wanda Franz, Ph.D. Smith (H46), // with Patrick Morrisey, who will be Ronnie Jones/ (H1), / (H48), Mike West Virginia’s new Attorney General WVL PAC Erikka Storch/Ryan Ferns (H3), Mike Ferro Manypenny (H49), Cindy Frich/Amanda endorsed Allen Pasdon/ (H51), Larry Attorney General, Darrell McGraw, and (H4), Dave Pethtel (H5), Roger Romine Loughry, who Williams (H52), Allen Evans (H54), Gary Allen Loughry, who took one of the open (H6), Woody Ireland (H7), Bill Anderson took one of the Howell (H56), (H57), Daryl seats on the State Supreme Court. Two (H8), (H9), / open seats for Cowles (H58), Larry Kump (H59), Larry endorsed congressional representatives won WV Supreme /Dan Poling (H10), Bob Ashley W. Faircloth (H60), (H62), re-election: David McKinley and Shelley Court, beating (H11), (H12), Moore Capito. Capito has since announced candidates John (H13), Jim Butler (H14), Michael Folk (H63), that she will be running for the U.S. Senate Yoder and Tish (H15), Carol Miller/ (H16), (H64) and (H66). Chafin. in 2014. Doug Reynolds/Dale Stephens (H17),  - WVFL NEWSPAPER - December 2012 WWW.WVFORLIFE.ORG

From the President Dear Friend of Life, I believe that we have enough evidence that abortion has had vastly negative PRESIDENT: On January 22, 2013, we will be effects on our great country: Wanda Franz, Ph.D. commemorating the 40th anniversary of Roe vs. VICE PRESIDENT: Wade and Doe vs. Bolton. On that date, in a brute • Health risks to future children of women who have had abortions, Lynn McEldowney, R.Ph. act of judicial power, seven unelected men on the • Psychological and physical health risks to the women who have had abortions, SECRETARY: U.S. Supreme Court brushed aside the constitutional • Damage to family relationships, sexual relationships and parent-child Louise Deal Separation of Powers and invented a “constitutional” interactions, right to abortion. By issuing the Roe vs. Wade and • Distortions in the law and failure to protect the innocent, TREASURER: Larry Cann Doe vs. Bolton decisions the Court invalidated, the • Loss of respect for the lives of the elderly and disabled. properly passed abortion laws in all 50 states and • Failure to protect our constitutionally-guaranteed right to life, NRLC DELEGATE: Wanda Franz, Ph.D. made, in all practicality, abortion on demand the law of the land. • Problems to our social-economic system, Today, the Supreme Court abortion decisions are still the law of the land. • And most importantly, about 55 million dead unborn children after 40 years of BOARD MEMBERS: However, we have no reason to despair over this fact. The pro-life movement is Roe. Region 1 Directors: strong and effective and we have changed the face of the abortion debate. In 1973, Marla Mercer we were a weak minority; today, we are the majority of the population. In 1973, Beyond the martyrdom of the innocent children and the damage to the women Rev. Thomas Rentfrow there were no protections for the victims of abortion; today, we have protective who have had abortions there is this: A nation that aborts its offspring is a nation Region 2 Directors: laws on the books in most states, including West Virginia. In 1973, abortion was without a future; it will wither away. When we declare our own flesh and blood Patty Cooper being painted as a positive good; today, it is no better than a necessary evil. as a mere “thing” that can be thrown away, then we have declared ourselves to be Wayne Sanders Forty years ago, I was part of the pro-life movement, and I remember the no more than things that can be discarded—especially if our existence depends on Region 3 Directors: debate very well. In the late 1960’s and early 1970’s, the arguments in favor someone else “wanting” us. George Wallace of legalizing abortion were all about the right of women to control their bodies. Forty years after Roe, the evidence is overwhelming that Roe vs. Wade and Region 4 Directors: Those in favor of legalizing abortion painted bright pictures of the future with Doe vs. Bolton must be overturned for the sake of the nation’s existence. Bonnie Ayers Hilda Shorter fulfilled women and small, in-tact families raising happy “wanted” children who West Virginians for Life will commemorate this important anniversary by were loved and protected. Abortion was going to eliminate unwanted pregnancy, having an educational event built around my presentation on Forty Years of Roe, Region 5 Directors: single parenthood, and child and domestic abuse. which will provide pro-life education about the effects of Roe and Doe. It will be Linda Oldack Charles Northrop The Supreme Court set up an enormous social experiment. As a professor held at Bridgeport Conference Center on Sunday, January 20 from 2:00 to 5:00. and researcher, I naturally ask about the results of this experiment. How did it Save the date and plan to attend this informative and important pro-life event. Region 6 Directors: William Floyd turn out? The nation needs to question the results of this experiment. Has the Judy Fuller new right to an abortion resulted in the bright dawn of a new social system, or has it released a destructive force affecting all of our social, economic, moral and Region 7 Directors: Lacey Dent personal existence, undermining the best of what it means to be human? Are we James Fritz better off as a nation? Are we better off as individuals? After forty years, it is time Wanda Franz, Ph.D., President At Large Directors: to examine these important questions. Louise Deal Mary Tillman

Political Liaison: • Chartered Bus leaves Morgantown Mall Karen Cross (Sears) at 4:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 25, to return Legislative Coordinator: Camille Armstrong approximately 11:00 p.m. STAFF: • Cost is $10 per person or $25 for a family of Financial Manager: three or more Sherri Stevens • Congressional Meeting at 10:30 a.m. Office Manager: Kim Drvar • Reservations mandatory, call 304-216-6573 Program Director: • If other charters are going, please inform the Mary Anne Buchanan WVFL Office at 304-594-9845. Office Assistant: 40th Annual March for Life is 1-25-2013 Brandi Loop

Contributors: Mary Anne Buchanan, Karen Cross, Wanda Sen. Jay Rockefeller To contact your U. S. Congressmen: Franz, Ph.D., Patricia Johnson 202-224-6472 Rep. David McKinley - (202) 225-4172 Rep. Nick J. Rahall II 531 Hart Building 313 Cannon Bldg., Washington, DC 20515 (202) 225-3452 Wanda Franz, Ph.D., President Life Matters, the official publication of West Virginians for Life, email through website: https://mckinley.house. 2307 Rayburn Bldg. and NRLC Representative 25 Canyon Rd., Morgantown, WV 26508, (304) 594-9845, Washington, DC 20510 [email protected], is published at 25 Canyon Rd., Morgantown, email: [email protected] gov/contact-me/email-me Washington, DC 20515 Wanda Franz, Ph.D, Publisher WV 26508. Third class postage paid at Morgantown, WV. email: nrahall@mail. Mary Anne Buchanan, Editor Permit #56. Sen. III - (202) 224-3954 Rep. Shelley Capito - (202) 225-2711 house.gov 311 Hart Building 2443 Rayburn Bldg., Washington, DC 20515 Permit No. 56 A Non-Profit Organization ISSN 1084-3795 Washington, DC 20510 email through website: Vol. 34 No. 4 Published Bi-monthly Price: $10.00 email: [email protected] http://writerep.house.gov/htbin/wrep_findrep WWW.WVFORLIFE.ORG WVFL NEWSPAPER - December 2012 -  Legislative Session Starts February 13 - Pain-Capable Bill Sought by Wanda Franz, Ph.D. agree that babies feel pain at this time. supplied during fetal surgery. babies suffer from the pain of abortion. We We now have techniques to measure We believe that the good people of can let them know that West Virginians for In the West Virginia Legislative session the degree of painful stimulation being felt West Virginia would want to protect these Life has a remedy in the form of the Pain- of 2012, West Virginians for Life introduced by a human being. When painful stimuli innocent babies. It is important for all of us Capable bill. We should begin to let our the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection occur, our body responds by putting out to let our fellow West Virginians know that representatives in Charleston know that Act. This bill has already been passed in a stress hormones. By we hope they will support passage of this number of states, and many more are working measuring the level of important piece of legislation. on its passage. So far these laws have not the stress hormones Robert J. White, M.D., Ph.D., professor been challenged in court. Because these in the body, we can of neurosurgery at Case Western University laws are in effect in these states, babies are determine that pain has said that if an unborn baby at 20 weeks being protected from the pain of abortion. is being experienced. gestation “is fully capable of experiencing When does the unborn baby acquire the This is the case in pain….Without question, [abortion] is a ability to feel pain? We know that, by 18 everyone who has dreadfully painful experience for any infant days after fertilization, the brain begins to been born. As early subjected to such a surgical procedure.” The take shape and the spinal cord starts to grow. as 18 weeks from pro-life movement recognizes the need to At 5 weeks, pain receptors appear around the fertilization, stress act to protect unborn babies from the pain mouth and, at 6 weeks, the unborn child first hormones are released of abortion. West Virginians for Life will jerks away from a touch to the mouth. In by an unborn child be working for passage of the Pain-Capable weeks 6 to 18, the cerebral cortex develops; being injected by a Unborn Child Protection Act during the 2013 and in weeks 8 to 16, the thalamus develops, needle, just as they legislative session. functioning as the main relay center in the are when adults feel brain for sensory impulses going from the pain. Furthermore, You can obtain brochures that spinal cord to the cortex. By 20 weeks researchers have describe the bill and petitions asking our after fertilization, pain receptors, spinal demonstrated that state representatives to support the bill by cord, nerve tracts, thalamus, and cortex are hormone levels WVFL Program Director Mary Anne Buchanan, Legislative Coordinator going to our website at wvforlife.org or by in place. All anatomical links needed for decrease in babies Camille Armstrong, pro-life Governor and President calling our office at 304-594-9845. feeling pain are present, and medical experts as pain-relievers are Wanda Franz, Ph.D. Abortion Causes Increases in Preterm Birth by Wanda Franz, Ph.D. important contributor to the development an average by abortion, come to our “Forty Years of of disabilities in babies. Clearly no parent yearly excess Roe” educational event on Sunday, January Since Roe vs. Wade and Doe vs. Bolton would want to put their children at risk for number of 20 from 2:00 to 5:00 at the Bridgeport made abortion legal for all nine months health problems, such as cerebral palsy. deaths to Conference Center off the I-79 freeway near of pregnancy, abortion has caused many Having an abortion puts these babies at risk prematurely Bridgeport, WV. (See back cover). serious negative effects to our society. One for requiring extensive hospital care and born babies of impact of abortion has been on the delivery rehabilitation. However, all babies born approximately of babies born to women who have had prematurely require extra hospitalization 4094 babies Dr. Byron C. Calhoun, MD, FACOG, FACS, MBA previous abortions. Research demonstrates and special hospital technologies, which are and 1096 is a diplomat of the American Board of Obstetrics that abortion puts these mothers at a higher stressful for the families and costly to our excess cases of and Gynecology and is board certified in general risk of having a preterm birth in subsequent health care system. cerebral palsy. Obstetrics/Gynecology and the sub-specialty of deliveries. Fortunately, our advanced medical The excess Maternal-Fetal Medicine. The reasons for the higher risk of preterm system can provide the care necessary to save dollar cost to He has authored 60+ peer review articles in the birth following abortion are well-known to the lives of many of these babies. Those that hospitals to obstetric and gynecologic literature, presented the medical community. Abortion causes survive can go on to have normal, productive care for these 100+ scientific papers, participated in 40+ minor damage to a woman’s reproductive lives. However, it is very expensive. Dr. children is research projects, and published several articles organs, which becomes a problem when the Byron Calhoun, M.D., FACOG, FACS, MBA over $1 billion. on perinatal hospice. He is an original author woman tries to carry a subsequent pregnancy is Professor and Vice Chair at the Department These are of the perinatal hospice concept which provides to term. Her chances of delivering the baby of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West Virginia excess costs a multidisciplinary care to families with a lethal prenatal diagnosis. Byron C. Calhoun, MD, early are higher than for the woman who University, Charleston, WV. His research on to society that FACOG, FACS, MBA has never had surgery that compromises her preterm birth has demonstrated that, “The would not exist Dr. Calhoun serves as Professor and Vice-Chair otherwise healthy body. mean hospital cost per survivor ranged from if abortions in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Preterm delivery is important because a high of $145,892 at 24 weeks gestation to were not being performed. at West Virginia University-Charleston. He and it is the most significant factor in causing $63,714 at 28 weeks gestation.” To hear more from Dr. Calhoun about his wife Kathryn have five children. the death of newborn babies. It is also an He estimates that abortion has caused his important research on the damage caused

Petitions regarding the “Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act” are available in the WVFL Office and online at www.wvforlife.org.  - WVFL NEWSPAPER - December 2012 WWW.WVFORLIFE.ORG October 13 Annual State Convention Was Highly Rated

Right: As the luncheon portion of the Convention came to an end, 1st District Congressman David McKinley took a moment to pose happily with Jameson Loop (age 5).

As keynote speaker at the annual October 13 State Convention, Burke U.S. Senate Candidate John Raese Balch, J.D., gave an informative talk on the dangers of ObamaCare. with WVFL President Wanda Franz, Ph.D.

Charlotte Jackson sang during the luncheon offering and gave Four county chapters of WVFL were represented in Connie Gibbs (Mason County), Dr. James Rossetti, Doctor of Osteopathy, gave an important everyone goosebumps with her Bonnie Ayers (Summers), Hilda Shorter (Raleigh) and Judy Fuller (Pocahontas). presentation entitled “Stem Cells: The Hope vs. the Hype.” rendition of “Proud to be an American.”

Linda Day, who so beautifully decorated the Trinity Assembly of Pastor Terry Woodside, also a House Candidates Lynette Kennedy State President Wanda Franz, Ph.D. presented the 2012 Angel God fellowship hall for us, posed with Karen and Mary Anne. House candidate, said moving McQuain and Kevin Poe (both seated) of the Year Award to Cabell County’s George Wallace. words before the benediction. with Marion Co. President Andy Sabak WWW.WVFORLIFE.ORG WVFL NEWSPAPER - December 2012 -  Dr. Robert George Provided Enlightening Evening

Seated: Araceli Almond, Dr. Greenbrier Almond and WVFL volunteer Bill Heffern “Politics, Conscience and Human Life” Seated: Darlene Jenks, Mary Ellen and Paul Keteles Standing: Terrance and Catherine Hugar, Marlyn and Darrell Milem and Millie was the Princeton professor’s topic. Standing: John Jenks, Tom Sheahen, Terry and Judy Sloane, Danielle Shepherd Heffern holding Therese-Rose King.

Delegate Gary Howell flanked by Karen Cross and Mary Anne Buchanan Cabell County Chapter Leader/Board Member Emcee Pastor James Sabin with WVFL’s Program Dir. Mary Anne George Wallace gave an impassioned plea. Buchanan, Office Mgr. Kim Drvar & NRL Political Dir. Karen Cross

The WVFL Staff plus our mascot Jameson Dr. George is a very good guitarist, too. He Seated: Dr. Tom Hogan, Edward and Susan Crowell had fun during the social hour. Standing: Terry and Kathy Schnell, Barbara and Bill Farmer  - WVFL NEWSPAPER - December 2012 WWW.WVFORLIFE.ORG 14th Annual Rose Dinner at a Glance

Right : Jacob King

studies God’s

handiwork in his

newborn daugher

Therese-Rose.

Seated L to R: Gunter Franz, Ph.D., Fr. Fred Byrne, Dr. Mike Hogan WVFL President Dr. Wanda Franz with keynote Robert George, Ph.D. Standing L to R: Wanda Franz, Ph.D., Robert George, Ph.D., Pastor James Sabin and Knights of Columbus officer Shawn O’Connor

Mon County Republican Executive Comm. Chairman Seated: Heather Bragg, Sheri Peery, Jameson and Brandi Loop Randy Meadows, Tammy and Brianna Morabito and Cabell County Chapter Kevin Poe, Mary Anne Buchanan, and WV Senator Standing: WVU Concessions Stand Coordinator Suzi Bragg, WVFL Leader George Wallace enjoyed themselves at the dinner. Dave Sypolt standing behind Delegate Tony Barill Political Liaison Karen Cross and Michael Cross

Seated: Connie and Betty Mantini, Catherine and Joseph George Singer Chelsea Malone so Seated: Kay Gray, Peggy Isaack, Mary and Joe Head Standing: Dr. Miklos Auber and wife Dianne and Delegate Gary Howell moved us with “Blessings” Standing: Dr. Donald Gray, Lance Lin and Sarah Wang and “Do It Anyway.” WWW.WVFORLIFE.ORG WVFL NEWSPAPER - December 2012 -  November 15, 2012 at Lakeview

The WVU Mountaineers for Life and Newman Club were in attendance. Seated: Wayne Malone and Seated: Morgan County Chapter Pres. Jim Fritz, Pete Deal, Sam & Daniel Deal Seated: Zach Cesa, Danielle Licata and Jason Miles daughter Chelsea Standing: Patricia Johnson, Pauline Lanciotti, Louise Deal, Mary Tillman, Ashley Standing: Matt Jones, Matthew Brumley, Matt Przybysz and Bill Committee Standing: Marc and Kayla Magro and Jacob King holding baby Therese-Rose King

Covenant Evangelical Methodist Church was well represented by (seated) Tim Fout, Karen Cross with our loyal Seated: Delegate Tony Barill, Bill Myers, Frank and Madelyn Romeo Jeremiah and Lynette Cline and (standing) Rhonda Fout, Mary Anne Buchanan, Pastor classical guitarist Dan Standing: Dr. David Puderbaugh and wife Margaret, Sean and Amy Wightman, Patrina Supler and Michael Kovach Cunningham Chris and Donna Kolanko

Seated: Michael Kawash, Fr. Carlos Melocoton, John Lojewski Princeton professor and Morgantown native Seated: Chrystie Saab, Kevin Scott Poe, Eleni Stagon and baby Seraphim Standing: Toni Southern and Annette Lojewski Robert P. George, Ph.D. with his parents Standing: Jaycen Saab, Andy Sabak, Thomas George and Pastor Matthew Catherine and Joseph Stagon  - WVFL NEWSPAPER - December 2012 WWW.WVFORLIFE.ORG

Pro-Life Profile West Virginia Teens for Life

by Patricia Johnson Dear WV Teens for Life, the prospects of finding a replacement are good. Christina Deal has done a wonderful By the next edition, Felicia Stevenson earned a Doctorate Degree in job (as did her older sister Jessica) with this look for a new face and Christian Counseling and is presently pursuing a second column over the last couple of years. She is name taking over WV Bachelor’s degree in Business Management at Washington now attending college. WVFL wishes her the Teens for Life. Bible College and Seminary, Lanham, . best! Now that would be a Dr. Stevenson began her work over 13 years ago under Additionally, there is excitement since great Christmas present! the senior pastor of New Covenant Christian Ministries. She served in administrative positions, assisted in structuring the me, and was told to change into a robe hanging girl, with her black hair and food bank out-reach ministry, served in praise and worship in a closet. When I had done that, the nurse grey eyes, was bursting my heart! My God, ministry, and helped to establish a Christian school. actually told me to “get my ‘a**’ up on the you saved her! In the year 2000, Dr. Felicia was elevated as a member table” and that the Dr. would be in. She turned My friend LaLane then informed me that if of Cathedral Baptist Church under the leading of the senior on a large, loud machine beside my feet. I lay I wanted to keep her, I could stay with her in her pastor of Cathedral Baptist Church International, Pastor Berry. there in silence. Looking up at a poster on the little one bedroom, one bathroom apartment, She served in the finance department, taught at various church ceiling meant to distract me I suppose, I cried until I could get on my feet! Everyone tried to Berkeley County Chapter locations in the ministry, organized outreach services, and silently, not making one sound. Just silent tears. persuade me to complete the adoption. But I Dr. Felicia Stevenson offered spiritual counseling. This is when, I know, that God knew me, before felt, in my heart, it was me and my daughter up In 2003, she was commissioned to begin a church in I ever knew him. against the world. And West Virginia, Tabernacle of Praise. Shortly after, Dr. Felicia was appointed as state overseer The “Dr.” came we were gonna make of West Virginia, overseeing numerous churches under the Covering of International Gospel into the room it. We had come too far Fellowship. and asked why together! I was crying. I Flashing forward: Felicia Stevenson became involved in the pro-life movement when God gave her an said ‘because of For 3 months I had lived understanding that life begins at conception. She became pregnant at the age of 14 and didn’t what’s about to with LaLane and her have an understanding of life in the womb. Her mother took her to the doctor for an exam happen.’ He said, husband and baby, still and they discovered that Felicia was five months pregnant. Against her will, Felicia’s mother ‘It’s what you attending school, when and the doctor agreed to perform an abortion that took three days. Felicia says that she will wanted, isn’t it?’ daddy called on Palm never forget the agony and anger she felt as the life of her preborn baby was taken from her. I replied, ‘No, its Sunday and said, “Pack Her mother tried to soothe Felicia’s wounds by telling her that the child in her womb was not what my daddy your bags, I’m coming a baby, but a blood clot. Sadly, Felicia shares that this was the first abortion of many as she wants.’ With to get you and your began to use abortion as a form of birth control. that, he simply Lisa in center, Lorrie and the baby!” Felicia has since been blessed with five biological children. After holding her son for reached over, first two granddaughters Daddy always the first time, she realized that everything she was told about abortion was a myth. Upon turned off the loved my sweet Lisa, giving her heart to God, He began to heal her wounds and showed her the error of her machine that was about to destroy my baby Lisa with Lorrie’s and not one to show his ways. As with most women, the memory of her abortions haunted Felicia for years. Felicia and said, ‘Get dressed, and get out. You are Third granddaughter emotions, he showed developed a desire to be a voice for the preborn and to help women in crisis situations who being uncooperative.’ I was so scared..I asked, his love in other ways. are contemplating abortion to choose life. She has been able to impact the culture of life ‘What about my money?’ He said, ‘You signed He took great care of us until I met my now by opening a maternity home to accommodate young, pregnant women who are in need of the papers, you are being uncooperative. Get husband of 30 years. We have our Lisa, sonograms and in crisis situations. out!’” who is the most amazing mother of our 3 WVFL thanks Felicia Stevenson for the courage to turn her pain into victory in serving No one can tell me God Himself didn’t grandchildren, Alexis, Leah & Luke. Our the Author of Life as she works to protect the most innocent among us, the child in the womb! step in that room and save us! I dressed, and middle is Jon, who is a Beckley WV K-9 Cop, nearly ran from the clinic to find daddy’s lady and our youngest, Doug who is the Center/ friends had been praying in the car the whole Guard for the Pittsburgh Steelers and a new time! Once home, I was sent to live in an father of a son, Trip. Lorrie’s Story-The Whole Thing unwed mothers home in Wheeling, WV. There Having been through all that I have, I see (In the previous edition of Life Matters, Lorrie’s Pro-Life Profile was so long and so good that I finished my school year and lived with other these young girls, as myself. I’ve always said it was difficult to abridge. Thus the story herewith in its entirety.) young girls in the same situation. I became that whatever I do, if I succeed in saving just Born in 1965 in Beckley WV, Lorrie lived there until 1983 when she married U.S. Army man, great friends with a girl, LaLane, who was due one baby...it will be worth every bit of what I Wayne Legursky. This afforded her opportunities to live in North Carolina, Georgia and West with her baby. Her boyfriend had moved there went through. I believe That God didnt allow Germany, finally returning home in 1992 after Desert Storm. to be close to her, and to work and start a life certain things to happen for me to just sit back In her own words, Lorrie says, “I was raised knowing that I was adopted! A week after my with them. It was understood that I would have and say, “Wow..that was some ordeal, thanks.” 5th birthday, my adopted mother died from a fall at the age of 43. My daddy did his best in raising my baby, and give her up for adoption, then No, I believe I’m now (enter whatever word me, which meant many “nannies” and lady friends to help along the way. He was a very loving, come home and it would never be brought up fits) enlightened, equipped, scarred, obligated, positive, jolly daddy! But I was never educated in things such as abstinence, sex education... again. God had different plans. driven to educate what abortion really is, and certain topics were simply not talked about in those days. I gave birth to the most beautiful, healthy that yes, there is hope and help if you find I was allowed to walk to a small church down the road from our house, but only whenever I 8 lb. 9 oz. baby girl on Jan 19, 1981. I signed yourself in that situation. I look at my amazing felt like attending. At 15, I learned that I was pregnant. Five months pregnant! temporary adoption papers. On my final day daughter, Lisa. She is so passionate in life, My daddy found a clinic that would provide an abortion in Charlotte, NC. He had two lady at the hospital, I decided to see my daughter in with all around her, her heart is full of love and friends drive me there...and (with cash only), I was sent in alone to abort my baby. I really didn’t the nursery. Daddy was on his way to bring me compassion. How could I have ever lived with realize what was happening, that I could actually have a life in me. I signed the papers they gave home. Alone. Holding my big, beautiful baby out her? She is my gift from God! WWW.WVFORLIFE.ORG WVFL NEWSPAPER - December 2012 - 

Rally for Life in the Capitol with WVFL List YOUR Name in the Ad for Life

This year’s Ad for Life in the Charleston Daily Mail will appear on Sunday, March 17, 2013, the day before the annual “Pro-Life Rally and Day at the Legislature” at the Capitol in Charleston. The ad will deal with the pain of the unborn child since the focus of West Virginians for Life this upcoming session will be on passage of a Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. Your contribution will not only help in financing this large expensive ad, but it will also include printing your name so that you can make a public statement. If you would like to donate, but do NOT want your name printed, please indicate that on the coupon below.

Please list my name as a sponsor of the “Ad for Life” in the Daily Mail. Enclosed is my donation toward the March 17 advertisement.

__$10.00 __$15.00 __$20.00 __$50.00 __$100.00 __$______

Name (Print)______Phone______Please join us on Monday, March 18, 2013 in the lower rotunda of the state capitol in Charleston at Noon. (If you do not wish to have your name listed in the ad, please indicate so on this coupon.) Highlights - Meet with your legislators (10 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.) - Rally at Noon Address______- Prayer Processional following rally - New t-shirts to the first 500 to register on site. City______State______Zip______- Peaceful sidewalk prayer at abortion clinic a short drive away Email______

For additional information: Donations should be made payable to: 304-594-9845 or wvforlife.org West Virginians for Life, Inc., 25 Canyon Rd., Morgantown, 26508

The day will be filled with fellowship, music, exciting speakers, Contributions to West Virginians for Life are not tax deductible as charitable contributions for income tax purposes. West Virginia residents may obtain a summary of the registration and financial documents from the and a special prayer walk through the Capitol on behalf of the Secretary of State, State Capitol, Charleston, WV 25305. Registration does not imply endorsement. unborn.

25 Canyon Road - Morgantown, WV 26508 (304) 594-9845 [email protected] - www.wvforlife.org CALENDAR OF EVENTS ( ) YES! You can count on me to help save unborn children from abortion. Enclosed is my BASIC state membership contribution of $35.

( ) YES! You can count on me to help save unborn children from abortion. Enclosed is my GOLD membership January 20, 2013 (Sunday) - “40 Years of Roe” at Bridgeport Conference Center contribution of $50 (includes National Right to Life membership - I will receive the NRL News.)

( ) I wish to support the work of the Political Action Committee* with a contribution of: ( ) $10 ( ) $25 ( ) $50 ( ) $100 ( ) $500 ( ) $1,000 ( ) $______January 20, 2013 (Sunday) - Sanctity of Human Life Sunday (SOHLS)

( ) I wish to support the educational work of WVFL with an additional tax-deductible contribution of: ( ) $10 ( ) $25 ( ) $50 ( ) $100 ( ) $500 ( ) $1,000 ( ) $______January 25, 2013 (Friday) - 40th Annual March for Life in Washington, D.C. ( ) I wish to join the Rose Society with a monthly pledge of: (Rose Society members receive a monthly update from the President and do not receive other fundraising mailings or calls other than fundraising for the political action committee.) ( ) $10 ( ) $15 ( ) $50 ( ) $100 ( ) $500 ( ) $1,000 ( ) $______February 13, 2013 (Wednesday) - 1st Day of Legislative Session, Charleston NAME______PHONE______ADDRESS______CITY______STATE_____ZIP______March 16, 2013 (Saturday) - Board Meeting, Clarksburg EMAIL______Occupation/Employer______

Because in addition to educating, we are involved in trying to change the law, contributions to West Virginians for Life, Inc. are not deductible as charitable contributions for income tax purposes. “West Virginia residents may obtain a summary of the registration and March 18, 2013 (Monday) - Annual Pro-Life Rally & Day at the Legislature financial documents from the Secretary of State, State Capitol, Charleston, WV 25305. Registration does not imply endorsement.” *A maximum donation of $1,000 per person per election cycle is allowed to the PAC. Please include occupation and employer when donating to the PAC. Corporate and church contributions to West Virginians for Life PAC are prohibited by law. Contributions to West Virginians for Life PAC are voluntary. Please disregard if you are a public employee or not a WVFL member. April 13, 2013 (Saturday) - Last Day of Legislative Session, Charleston 10 - WVFL NEWSPAPER - December 2012 WWW.WVFORLIFE.ORG Across the Mighty State

what a blessing to be there. George Wallace Mason County: Four thanks his buddy Randy Meadows for going members of the Mason with him and making that long trip more County Right to Life enjoyable. Definitely worth it. Thanks to the peacefully prayed at the WVFL staff for putting on a great program. Planned Parenthood in It’s always enjoyable being around staff from Wood County during the state office. 40 Days for Life. Wayne Sanders, Fr. Harrison County: Harrison County Chapter Dave Schmitt, Sunny sponsored a booth at the Lost Creek Festival and Connie Gibbs on Sept. 17. The chapter also participated participated as well. in a Chick-fil-A fundraiser. Cards were The chapter delivered handed out inviting people to purchase food $500.00 worth of Berkeley County Chapter Leader Dr. Felicia at Chick-fil-A between the hours of 5:00 p.m baby items to the Stevenson, HD65 Candidate and and 8:00 p.m. on Sept. 19. Fifteen percent of Parkersburg crisis WVFL President Wanda Franz, Ph.D. at the sales was received by the chapter pregnancy center. Open House for Dr. Stevenson’s maternity After all their hard home in Martinsburg, My Father’s House work, the chapter was Cares. pleased that Mason Above: Jefferson County Start-Up meeting on November 27. County chose Romney Cabell County: Without volunteers, the July WVFL President Wanda Franz, Ph.D. and Program Director 23 -27 Cabell County Fair booth would not for President. On Mary Anne Buchanan traveled in to help Patricia Rucker (2nd have been possible. August 18, 2012 - Cathy the evening before from left) learn the “nuts and bolts”. Weiss and Chapter Leader George Wallace the election, the were at Wal-Mart for a bake sale and were Mason chapter held Vicky at Galaxy Food Center in Hamlin for another a Candlelight Prayer Nazarewycz bake sale in September. Bake sales are Vigil on the county and Mason excellent for getting in the public limelight courthouse steps in Pt. County Chapter and meeting people. October 4-7, the Pleasant. “God Bless Leader Connie Pumpkin Festival in Milton saw the chapter America” was sung, Gibbs manned booth attract big crowds all four days. They then the Preamble to a booth at had 20 volunteers assisting with this major Harrison County Booth at the Lost Creek Festival the Constitution and the Christmas project. On October 13, six people from selected portions of Bazaar in New Cabell County attended the State Convention Jefferson County: The chapter is restarting the Constitution and Haven on in Fairmont. They encourage everyone to go. with Patricia Rucker at the helm. The initial Amendments were November 3. Participation in the October 7 Life Chain was meeting was held at the Mountain View Diner read. Prayers were headed up by Cathy Weiss. Thanks to all for in Charles Town on November 27. The next made, including being there. September 26 thru November 4, meeting will take place in January. Contact prayers for 40 Days 2012 – the chapter was involved with the 40 Patricia at [email protected] to get for Life. Mason Days for Life campaign. Thanks to Dr. Kallee involved. County Right to Life set up a table for the Marion County: Four of nine of former New Haven Christmas pro-life Agnes DeRosa’s children attended a Bazaar. Many different recent Marion County Chapter meeting and baked goods, peanut generously gave a donation in her honor. butter fudge and Chex mix were sold. Pro-life items were also for sale. The chapter recently put up a The Mon County Chapter of WVFL used the “What if I Hadn’t Been billboard on Rt. Born?” theme in the WVU Homecoming Parade. Adults and teens 62 north of Pt. walked alongside and passed out candy and Presidential/Senatorial compartion flyers. Pleasant on Paul Rob and Kristi Dunlap and crew - just some and Dr. Agnes Simon’s 13th, distributed literature and supported of the 20 volunteers who helped out at the property. the pro-life cause. Chairman Zane Lawhorn Cabell County Fair. gave a presentation on Pro-Life issues at Mercer County: Chairman Zane the Prayer Action Committee meeting at the Abner for heading up that project. The last Lawhorn, Jennifer Howdock and Debra Willowbrook Baptist Church. function for the year was the Rose Dinner and DeRosa children donated to Marion County Chapter. Flores attended the Southern West Virginia Tea Party Rally on October Monongalia County: The WVU WWW.WVFORLIFE.ORG WVFL NEWSPAPER - December 2012 - 11 Across the Mighty State

their twelfth annual together for one hour asking God’s blessing Respect Life Dinner and holding signs proclaiming the sanctity on September 22nd at of human life. An estimated 2,000 drivers, the Berkeley Baptist passengers and pedestrians observed the Family Life Center. The signs during the one hour of demonstration. key speaker was Allen Reaction to the demonstration was very Loughry, a Supreme positive with many thumbs up, honks from Court attorney, author the truckers, pictures taken of those holding and a candidate for signs and even a donation from a passenger. State Supreme Court The St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Justice. Loughry Church, the Emmanuel Baptist Church and The Raleigh County Chapter pays tribute to went on to win this the Berkeley Baptist Church ended their two ardent pro-lifers who went on to Glory position on November Spiritual Adoption Program with a shower this past year. They are Delano Dean and 6. Loughry’s talk was for the unborn babies. At St. Vincent de John Jaap pictured above. very interactive and he Paul, they had the following number of continually emphasized spiritual adoptions: 106 girls and 94 boys. Life and they would weather the winter cold the need to be pro-life The girls always out-number the boys. There to walk in the Christmas Parade. I’m sure as Monroe County Chapter Leader Martha Hunter enjoyed sharing in any political position. was a weekly announcement in the church they entered into Heaven, they were greeted pro-life information at the annual Harvest Festival. He feels the judiciary is bulletins from the unborn baby announcing by millions of babies thanking them for their Homecoming Parade on September 28 critically important to its upcoming birth and thanking all for the undying love for the precious unborn babies. proved to be a very positive experience for people’s lives and should serve a safeguard gifts. The shower, organized by Barbara They will be greatly missed and fondly the 30 or so participants who walked with against of the people’s rights and freedoms. Carr, and held in the Gathering place after remembered. our unit. “What if I Hadn’t Been Born” was Bob Williams and his wife Eun Yea provided each Mass, resulted in over $800 in baby received with cheers and applause from the the upbeat to soft and worshipful and gifts, cash and checks for the local Gabriel Upshur County: The chapter sponsored the crowd. The chapter looks forward to putting everything in between music for the event. Project and the Hope Pregnancy Center in billboard below on I-79 near Lost Creek. another signature ad in The Dominion Post Bob has several albums to his credit. Carol Hagerstown, Maryland. on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade and is Ambrose, as the Master of Ceremonies, Members of WVFL of Morgan County sponsoring a chartered bus to Washington for introduced the speakers for the evening and others provide sidewalk counseling the 40th Annual March for Life on January as well as giving recognition to the many three days a week in front of the abortuary 25. Call Mary Anne at 304-216-6573 to workers responsible for pro-life activity in in Hagerstown, Maryland. Since October reserve your seat(s). Berkeley Springs. Sharon DePoorter did 2006, they convinced 312 women not most of the cooking of side dishes, many to abort their babies. It is estimated that Monroe County: Monroe County Chapter- of the Berkeley Baptist Church ran the at least an equal number of women have West Virginians for Life set up a booth at the kitchen and kept the tables full, Bette Burke changed their minds about abortion after annual Harvest Festival. They sold baked organized people who brought desserts, Joe viewing their large signs and witnessing items and distributed pro-life literature as DePoorter took the pictures and handled all the people praying. This is roughly two well as around 1,000 political comparison of the odd jobs and Barbara Carr did a great babies saved per week. flyers. job on the Silent Auction. The 8’ X 12’ pro-life billboard outside WVU Mountaineers for Life: Matthew On Columbus Day weekend the of Berkeley Springs on Route 522 continues. Brumley is the contact person for the WVU Morgan County Chapter participated Thanks to all who support this, especially pro-life group. in the Apple Butter Festival by the Knights of Columbus, having a Pro-Life Float in the parade the Holy Name Society and on Saturday and manned the annual some of the local churches. Pro-Life Booth during the Saturday Visit the chapter website at and Sunday festivities. The booth WWW.WVFL-MCC.COM. consisted of free balloons with a pro- life message, fetal models to be picked Raleigh County: Raleigh up and examined, free pro-life and County RTL lost two abstinence literature, bumper stickers, great pro-lifers this year. pins and buttons. A big hit, as always, Delano Dean, 71, left were the fetal models. They gave out us on November 16 and about 100 twelve week old models John Jaap, 79, left us on with information cards. Another hit February 22. These two Driver Bob Ezolt and Morgan County Chapter Leader were the pro-life tee shirts. men were dedicated pro- Jim Fritz with their Apple Butter Festival parade entry. On October 14th many local citizens lifers who worked hard to participated in the National Life Chain save our precious unborn. The West 50 concessions stand at all seven WVU home football games was a success raising, at a minimum, $8,000 for West by forming a “Life Chain” along Route They were always present Morgan County: The Morgan County Virginians for Life. The coordinator, Suzi Bragg, did a terrific job Chapter of West Virginians for Life held 522 in downtown Berkeley Springs. There at our monthly meetings, and the many volunteers are to be commended for their dedication. were 20 people from several faiths praying our Mother’s Day Walk for PAID U.S. Postage U.S. Postage Life Matters Non-Profit Organization Non-Profit West Virginians for Life, Inc. Virginians West

December 2012 25 Canyon Road 25 Canyon 26508 WV Morgantown, Requested Change Service

Join us at: When? Merry Christmas Bridgeport Conference Center Sunday, January 20, 2013 300 Conference Center Way 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Bridgeport, WV 26330 and Happy New Year Special Speakers: Dr. Wanda Franz and Dr. Byron Calhoun from all of us at FREE ADMISSION ~ REFRESHMENTS 40 Years of Roe: The Nation’s Tragic Experiment West Virginians for Life!